Looking for small metal bandsaw

[PJHH175]

Hi all,
Just really getting started with welding and am looking for a small metal bandsaw. I saw some earlier posts about a "Kawasaki" from TSC for about $99.00, but they don't have them at my Tractor Supply. I just bought the welder and tank, so trying not to spend a ton, but something to get me started so I can start practicing my finish welds. Ie, need to be able to angle cut a square tube and weld a frame together. Want to start small.

Thanks for all the great information.

[bluesparks]

Look into the 4x6 saw from Harbor Freight. Not a bad saw once you put a decent blade on it.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=93762

You can probably pick up a used one from Craigslist for cheap.

There's also one from Homier for a little more:

http://www.homier.com/detail.asp?sku=03111

The basic 4x6 bandsaw is very popular, so finding one used shouldn't be a problem, if that's the way you want to go.

[scotte]

try craiglist

if you don't find anything post a wanted ad

something like a 4x6 bandsaw there's always people that have one and want to upgrade "some day"

[sunpeople]

I have to go along with what Scotte said buy the 4X6 saw and once you have all of the bugs worked out of it you will have a great little shop saw. As for fixing the bugs on it just do a search on the web and you will find lots of web sites that will tell you how to fix ever problem with that saw. One last thing only buy Bi metal blades for it all of the rest are just a waste of your money.

[Hot Fingers]

I agree. The Harbor Freight 4x6 is a very usable saw once it is tuned up. There are a lot of resources available on the web to guide you. My number one recommendation is to throw out the blade that comes with it. Buy a name brand bimetal blade. The teeth per inch vary with the stock you are cutting. Many people find a variable TPI of 10 to 14 usable for many different situations. Check out some of the guidelines provided by the blade manufacturers. That will get you started in the right direction.

You can frequently find these saws for sale on Craigs List for great prices. Choose the cleanest saw that has all the adjustments working and has been used by a hobby metal worker. It will most likely be lightly used. These saws have not changed significantly in the last 10 years so don't worry about getting a really new one.

[PJHH175]

Found Saw - Maybe??

I came across a Kalamazoo 7 x 10 inch band saw. Don't know the model number, but it's quite big - maybe 5 1/2 feet in the horizontal. It has hydraulic feed and everything seems to function, but it does look used. It is a dry saw now, ie the pump and tank are gone. Retired guy is selling and wants $300. He has an even bigger Kalamazoo now. This is bigger than I wanted, but I guess I can grow into it.

BTW, the small Kawasaki bandsaw pictured is model #840076, but I can't find out where to buy one.

Thanks all,
Pat

[usmcpop]

Anything like this one?

http://www.usedequip.com/q/showdlist/,,ST,,,000502,10229613

[slag_ch]

try tsc

tractor supply has a 4x6 that does horizontal and vertical cutting for around $240. have looked it over, and seems to be made well, it is a clarke. the body/frame and running gear are decent, and without running it, the motor is at least up to average standards. 3 speeds and i believe auto shut-off.

[Chuck U&R]

I'd like to find one of those little Kawasaki's for $99.

I could set it on my cut-off table when needed or even take it to the job site !